MERCY NOW & OPEN DOOR

Artist’s statment:

Collage is from the French coller "to glue or stick together," it is a technique of art creation primarily used in the visual arts by which art results from an assemblage of many different forms, thus creating a new whole.

Mercy Now was inspired by a song called Mercy Now by Mary Gauthier, which is about compassion and forgiveness. This collage speaks of time passing and a father's declining health "It won't be long, he won't be around." I saw the sepia pic of the old house and another one of an old man reflected in the mirror, cutting them apart; I rearranged them into the visual of a son or maybe even a younger self coming through the door, it's up to you.

Open Door - A big Science Fiction fan, I took clippings from several magazines and placed them to suggest long distance or far away space then, combined them with an opening door. Are we really open to what's out there?

Based in Borrego Springs California, artist Robin Young works in mixed media focusing mostly on collage and contemporary art making. From large, life-sized pieces and 3D sculptures to small postcard-sized arrangements, Robin's keen eye and gripping esthetic guide her viewers into her own semi-readymade world.

LAY LADY LAY #1 & LAY LADY LAY #2

Artist’s statement:

These two pieces are part of a three-part series that explores themes of art history and the objectification of women.

Inspired by Picasso's groundbreaking work, "Young Ladies of Avignon," these collages are created using leftover fragments from a larger project. They serve as a satirical commentary on the male gaze prevalent throughout art history. In an effort to challenge societal norms, I juxtapose female figures sourced from 1950s and 60s pop culture and soap ads with drawings of ancient Greek statues of male heroes and athletes. This contrast highlights the mesmerizing effect of feminine mystique on the male psyche.

The composition of these collages is layered, both visually and conceptually. The figures are placed upon a landscape featuring concrete walls and steps of ruined military bunkers, symbolizing the conflicts and complexities inherent in relationships between the sexes. To create depth and texture, I incorporate layers of tissue and cloth, while utilizing found papers and pencil marks to create an antique-like patina.

I hope that these collages provoke thought and encourage dialogue about the representation of women in art history and contemporary society.

GJ Gillespie is a collage artist living in a 1928 Tudor Revival farmhouse overlooking Oak Harbor on Whidbey Island (north of Seattle). In addition to natural beauty, he is inspired by art history -- especially mid century abstract expressionism. The “Northwest Mystics” who produced haunting images from this region 60 years ago are favorites. Winner of 20 awards, his art has appeared in 60 shows and more than 90 publications including 11 covers.